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Lieutenant General Carla Lyrio Martins, the first woman to achieve the rank of general officer in the Brazilian Air Force, has shared valuable advice for Pakistani women aspiring to build careers in the military.
At 59, General Martins serves as the Commandant of the Superior School of Defense in Brasília, Brazil’s capital. Last month, she visited Pakistan to deliver a lecture at the National Defense University (NDU) in Islamabad, where she engaged with Pakistani women from diverse backgrounds, discussing their evolving roles in society.
During an interview following her visit, Martins expressed her optimism about Pakistan’s progress toward a more modern and inclusive society.
“At the workshop [at NDU], we discussed how Pakistan is evolving into a modern and more open country, and my impressions are very positive,” she stated. “I met many women with innovative ideas and key roles in the workforce, and I’m truly impressed. I feel very optimistic about Pakistan’s future.”
As a decorated officer recognized for her contributions to national defense, Martins acknowledged that although women may not yet make up half of the world’s armed forces, their participation is crucial for the success of military operations.
“We are present, and we are essential to fulfilling the mission,” she emphasized. “The inclusion of women makes the military stronger and more modern.”
Martins’ career began in March 1990 at the Aeronautics Specialized Instruction Center, and after more than three decades of service, she was promoted to Lieutenant General in November 2023. Reflecting on her journey, she acknowledged the challenges she faced but emphasized that the Brazilian military has evolved into an institution that values gender equality.
“In Brazil, women are welcomed as we walk side by side with equal opportunities,” she said. “If you are determined, if you study, and if you embrace new challenges, this is the perfect environment for you.”
She also expressed her hope to see more women take on leadership roles in military forces worldwide.
According to Martins, leadership is defined by competence and vision, not gender.
“Leadership is about posture, the ability to interact, and to communicate direction,” she explained. “Women have all the capabilities, and their presence in leadership roles is increasing.”
She firmly believes that women in leadership positions have the power to shape the future of any institution, including the military.
As a mother of two, Martins emphasized that balancing family life with a military career is possible. She highlighted the importance of dedication, hard work, and education while also advocating for shared responsibilities at home, urging men to play an equal role in family life.
“Educate yourself, be courageous, and pursue your dreams, because we can achieve whatever we set our minds to,” she advised young women considering military service.
Martins also reflected on her experience in Pakistan, acknowledging that her visit challenged preconceived notions shaped by international media.
“The image of Pakistan we see abroad is not what I experienced here,” she remarked. “I see a modern city with people who are open to dialogue and tolerant. The outside perception is that of a closed society, but that’s not what I’ve witnessed here.”
Her visit to Pakistan not only provided an opportunity to engage with Pakistani defense officials and women leaders but also reinforced her belief that inclusion and diversity are essential for the growth of any nation.
As Pakistan continues to make strides in gender inclusivity, Martins’ words serve as an inspiration for women aspiring to join the military and contribute to the country’s defense forces.
